Carteret Fire Department boat sunk by whale strike in Raritan Bay
Key Points:
- A whale breached beneath the stern of a New Jersey fire department boat returning from a July 4 marine security assignment, causing catastrophic damage and forcing firefighters to abandon the vessel.
- All firefighters aboard escaped without injury, aided by nearby recreational boaters and the Perth Amboy Fire Department's marine unit during the rescue.
- Multiple whales were reported breaching in the area before and after the collision, though the species involved and the whale's condition remain unknown.
- The incident is under review, with officials expressing gratitude that no one was harmed and emphasizing the importance of wearing life jackets during marine activities.
- Mayor Dan Reiman described the event as a rare and harrowing experience, highlighting the unpredictability despite regular training for marine emergencies.